After reading and researching books, articles and other resources on communication, first impressions, networking and conversation, I’ve learned one important thing: none of them address what approachability means.
I read The Power of Approachability and founded to be one of the best books out there. So, straight from the pages of the book, here are 7 Ways to Maximize Your Networking Approachability
Wear Your Nametag
I’ve heard every possible complaint about wearing nametags, and all of them can be validated. Case in point:
Nametags look silly – yes, they do. But remember, everyone else is wearing them too.
Nametags ruin my clothes – not if you wear them on the edge of your lapel or use cloth-safe connectors like lanyards and plastic clips.
But I already know everybody – no you don’t. You may think you do, but new people come in and out of businesses and organizations all the time.
But everyone already knows me – no they don’t. Even the best networkers know there’s always someone new to meet.
Your nametag is your best friend for several reasons. First of all, a person’s name is the single context of human memory most forgotten. And people are less likely to approach you if they don’t know (or forgot) your name. Secondly, it’s free advertising for you and your company. Third, nametags encourage people to be friendly and more approachable. TRUST me on that one!
Ready to Engage
The word approachability derives from the Latin verb appropriare, which means “to come nearer to.” Interesting. It doesn’t say anything about the approach-er or the approach-ee. Just “to come nearer to.” So the first idea to remember is that approachability is a two way street. It’s both you stepping onto someone else’s front porch; and you inviting someone to step onto your front porch.
Although this article will address both sides of the street, here’s an example of the former. When you arrive at a meeting, event, party or anywhere in which many conversations will take place, prepare yourself. Be “ready to engage” with conversation topics, questions and stories in the back of your mind ready to go as soon as you meet someone. This will help you avoid those awkward “How’s the weather” type of discussions.